Beginning with the Telecommunications Act of 1996 and following through all the subsequent FCC and state proceedings pertaining to local competition, interconnection, access reform, and universal service have led JSI to expand and sharpen its regulatory focus. JSI’s economic and regulatory policy groups serve as effective and pro-active watchdogs for rural, community based, and small-company interests. In addition, JSI participates actively in a number of national associations, coalitions, and task forces working to steer federal and state policy in a direction that will afford independent telecom providers the same opportunities and safeguards larger carriers receive.

At the federal level, JSI frequently participates in FCC generic dockets to analyze notices, proposed rulemakings, and orders for their impact on clients and other ILECs; assist clients in complying with FCC rules and regulations; partner with national and state trade associations on common strategies and positions; and, develop comments and replies supporting independent ILEC positions. In addition, JSI often plans and participates in ex parte meetings with FCC staff, and works with individual clients to file company-specific comments.

JSI also is active in state regulatory proceedings, similarly analyzing how state PUC notices, proposed rulemakings, and orders could affect clients. In the course of these proceedings, JSI regularly represents independent ILEC interests in state universal service developments, assists companies in complying with PUC rules and regulations, participates with industry coalitions on strategies supporting independent ILEC positions, and partners with national and state industry associations on common strategies and positions. JSI also assists individual clients with filing company-specific comments and expert testimony, and plans and participates in ex parte and informal meetings with state PUC staff.

Clients also look to JSI for counsel and assistance in economic-related proceedings, both at the FCC and at state PUCs. JSI can evaluate national and state cost proxies, analyze state-specific costing and pricing dockets, as well as develop regional or independent ILEC proxies. Along the same line, JSI frequently provides expert testimony, develops or analyzes cost support data, and participates with clients in ex parte meetings. Finally, JSI assists with individual company filing requests, preparing waivers and petitions for reconsideration of FCC or state PUC rules and developing economic and technical data to support waivers and petitions.

If you would like additional information or have any specific questions regarding regulatory policy, please contact Douglas Meredith (dmeredith@jsitel.com) in JSI’s Salt Lake City office, at 801-294-4576.